The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 157

Olivia

Friday afternoon found us speeding along the Pacific Coast Highway, windows down and music playing. Alexander looked relaxed behind the wheel, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to squeeze my knee.

“So, are you going to tell me more about this Malibu house?” I asked, watching the ocean glitter alongside the highway.

“And ruin the surprise? Not a chance.” He grinned, sunglasses hiding his eyes. “Just trust me.”

“The last time you said ‘trust me,‘ I ended up zip–lining across a canyon in the island.”

“And wasn’t it exhilarating?”

“Terrifying is the word I’d use.”

Alexander’s phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the display before silencing it. “Work can wait until Monday.”

“Look at you, ignoring calls. Who are you and what have you done with my workaholic husband?”

“I’m evolving,” he said with mock seriousness. “Becoming a more balanced individual.”

“Uh–huh.” I wasn’t convinced. “Let’s see how long that lasts.”

“At least until Monday morning,” he promised. “This weekend is just for us.”

The Malibu house, as Alexander had modestly called it, turned out to be a stunning oceanfront villa perched on the cliffs above a private beach. Modern architecture blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, floor- to–ceiling windows capturing breathtaking views of the Pacific.

“This is incredible,” I breathed as we stepped into the expansive living room. The space opened onto an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the ocean beyond.

“Glad you approve,” Alexander said, looking pleased with himself. “Wait until you see the master suite.”

featured a king–sized bed facing the ocean, with a private terrace and an outdoor shower

my hand along the

the best for Mrs. Carter,” Alexander replied,

what’s the plan?” I asked, leaning back against his chest.

a moonlight swim…” His hands slid up to cup my breasts, thumbs brushing

his arms to face him. “But I

disappointed but quickly recovered. “Your wish is my command. Beach first, then

to the beach below. The cove was completely secluded, protected by natural rock formations that blocked

place?” I asked, digging my toes

Alexander said, watching a seagull soar overhead. “I

with a laugh.

said with a grin that

I started walking toward the water’s edge, feeling the cool spray against

before he could respond, laughing as I heard him shout behind me. Despite my head start, Alexander caught up quickly, his longer stride eating up the distance between us. Just as I reached the outcropping of rocks,

laughter as

a ten–second head start,” he countered, setting me down but keeping his arms

a moment, catching our breath, the waves lapping at our ankles. Alexander’s eyes were bright with something I

suddenly self–conscious under his

how beautiful you look right

gentle but quickly deepened, his hands sliding down to cup my bottom and

head back,” he murmured against my lips. “Before I’m tempted

scandalous,” I agreed, stepping

teased, taking my hand

“Hardly. Just common sense.”

the rest of the afternoon alternating between swimming in the infinity pool and lounging on the deck chairs with cocktails. By the time the sun began to set, I felt more relaxed than I had

Alexander asked, handing me a fresh towel as I emerged from

I admitted, wrapping

Dinner should

you